MP high court denies MTP nod as minor survivor says she wants the child

BHOPAL: Madhya Pradesh high court declined permission for medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) of a 16-year-old rape survivor who is 29-weeks pregnant after she expressed her wish to give birth to the child.

"The victim has categorically denied consent for termination of pregnancy and wants to continue with the pregnancy as she has solemnised marriage with the accused. The parents have disowned the victim," the bench of Justice Vishal Mishra noted in the recent order.

The judge directed Child Welfare Committee of Sehore district to take care of the survivor and her child till the former turns 18. The court took up the case suo motu based on a reference from Sehore district court.

"In view of the fact that the victim has refused termination of pregnancy and wants to continue with it, this court is of the view that permission for termination cannot be given. The delivery will be carried out in the presence of an expert team of doctors at Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal," Justice Mishra said.

The court referred to a report of a medical board that advised against MTP at such an advanced stage of pregnancy, suggesting it could be risky for both the girl and the child. It also highlighted that a four-member counselling team had provided guidance to the survivor and recorded her and her parents' statements.

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